RECENT

Gisborne Times, Volume LXXIII, Issue 12076, 16 October 1933, Page 3

RECENT

GLORIOUS COMIC OPERA

“Fra Diavolo’’, the screen’s first comic opera, delighted large audiences at the Regent Theatre on Saturday. Its musical ..and singing numbers alone make tnis production an attractive one. Denis King, principal of “The Vagabond King” 'is heard in several musical numbers, supported by a splendidlytrained chorus of 150 voices. The song of the bandit chief, Fr.a. Diavolo, is particuarly fine. But stirring singing is not the sole attraction or tilii-v 'entertainment. Graceful dancers anl clever comedians, scenes or love and laughter and picturesque backgrounds combine to make a delightfully romantic story full of sparkling wit and humor. As bra Diuvolo (the Devil’s Brother) Denis King is seen in the picturesque role of a brigand-marquis. Associated with him are such versatile artists; as Thelma Told, Stan Laurel and Oliver. Hardy. Alosb of the humor and' hilarity emanates from -Staulio and Ollio (Laurel and Hardy), whoso clowning is- mirth-provoking to a high degree. Forced to join Diavoto’s gang after having been waylaid and robbed, these, two simple souls are illimitable as the servants of thebandit- chief.. A highly- humorous scene arises from the over-lengthy stay of Stanlio in. the wine- cellar of a tavern. Of special interest-in the supporting programme are two outstanding features a thrilling exhibition of motor cycle riding, with explanatory remarks by Pete Smith, ail'd travelogue of Barbados and Trinidad. The box plans ’are now. open for Pat Hanna in “Diggers”.